ClimeCo, in partnership with Saving Nature and Colombia-based non-profit Fundación Bioconservancy, is proud to spotlight our transformative nature-based project aimed at protecting and restoring the Andean cloud forests of Colombia. The initiative addresses critical environmental challenges, empowers local communities, and preserves one of the world’s most unique biodiversity hotspots.
Project Overview
The project, certified under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and classified under Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR), focuses on the reforestation of over 556 hectares (1,400 acres) of cloud forest habitat in Antioquia, Colombia. This region is part of the Western Andes, one of 36 global biodiversity hotspots considered among the most diverse and threatened places on Earth.
Unparalleled Biodiversity
Cloud forests account for only 1% of global forests but are home to an extraordinary concentration of biodiversity. The project is located in a region home to approximately one-sixth of our planet’s total biodiversity, encompassing over 300,000 species. Remarkably, scientists believe that only 10% of species in this region have been documented, highlighting the immense potential for new discoveries.
Environmental Impact
By investing in this project, buyers and investors contribute to:
- Carbon sequestration: The project is expected to sequester more than 250,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide over its 40-year lifetime.
- Habitat protection: The initiative safeguards critical habitats for numerous vulnerable, threatened, and endangered species.
- Ecosystem restoration: The project aims to reconnect fragmented forests, supporting species migration upslope to cooler habitats as the climate warms.
- Climate change mitigation: The project restores and protects cloud forests, crucial in regulating water cycles and maintaining watershed health.
Community Empowerment and Social Impact
The project goes beyond environmental conservation, delivering significant social co-benefits to local communities:
- Employment opportunities: The initiative provides direct employment for the local community in La Mesenia village, with compensation more than 50% above the Colombian national minimum wage.
- Gender equality: The project promotes a working family model, emphasizing activities that encourage women’s involvement.
- Economic diversification: Tree planting has created additional economic opportunities, with women-led community nurseries collecting and germinating seeds.
- Knowledge sharing: Local community members contribute valuable insights on seedling growth and wildlife behavior.
Impact of Investment
By investing in this project, buyers and investors:
- Support verifiable carbon removal credits
- Contribute to the protection of a global biodiversity hotspot
- Empower local communities through sustainable economic opportunities
- Fund crucial ecosystem restoration and scientific research efforts
- Participate in a long-term solution to global climate challenges
A Unique Opportunity
“This project represents a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on environmental conservation and community development,” said Brad Seely, Ph.D., Vice President of Nature-Based Solutions at ClimeCo. “By investing in the protection of Colombia’s Andean cloud forests, our partners are not only offsetting their carbon footprint but also supporting one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth and empowering local communities.”
“Our work in Colombia’s cloud forests is a critical step towards reversing the devastating impacts of deforestation and habitat loss,” commented Dr. Stuart Pimm, President of Saving Nature. “By restoring these fragile ecosystems and reconnecting fragmented landscapes, we are not only safeguarding biodiversity but also providing vital watershed protection for local communities. This project represents a powerful model of conservation that combines science, local knowledge, and sustainable solutions. Together, we are creating a future where both people and nature can thrive.”
The Andean cloud forest project exemplifies ClimeCo’s commitment to developing high-integrity environmental initiatives that deliver multiple benefits. Through this project, we invite investors and buyers to join us in creating lasting positive change for our planet and its people.
For more information on how to participate in this transformative project, please contact us.
About ClimeCo
ClimeCo is a global sustainability company headquartered in Pennsylvania, with projects and partners all over the world. Our mission is to advance the low-carbon future and restore nature with market-based solutions. We offer comprehensive services spanning environmental asset innovation, ESG and climate strategy consulting, regulatory and policy advisory, environmental credits, API solutions, and climate action certification programs.
Our growing team of respected scientists and industry experts collaborate with companies of all sizes, governmental groups, NGOs, and capital markets players on ESG, decarbonization, and policy issues—allowing us to develop high-quality, purpose-built end-to-end sustainability solutions with measurable impact. We are steadfastly committed to educating and empowering our clients, no matter where they are in their sustainability journey, to be confident in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Take your climate initiatives to new heights by collaborating with ClimeCo. Contact us at
+1 484.415.0501, info@climeco.com, or through our website climeco.com.
About Saving Nature
Saving Nature is a conservation organization dedicated to preventing extinctions, combating climate change, and empowering local communities. By purchasing degraded land and restoring it with native trees, Saving Nature creates wildlife corridors that reconnect forest fragments too small for the long-term survival of species. Focusing on biodiversity hotspots in the tropics, Saving Nature operates on the front lines of conservation, where tropical forests are most at risk from commercial agriculture, logging, and population pressures. With a mission to restore, connect, and protect critical habitats, Saving Nature aims to secure a thriving future for wildlife and people. For more information, visit SavingNature.com.
About Fundación Bioconservancy
Since 2008, Fundación Bioconservancy has been dedicated to preserving biodiversity in the Antioquia region of Colombia. Led by renowned conservationist Luis Mazariegos, the organization focuses on expanding and connecting critical habitats for birds and other endemic species. By integrating research, environmental education, and community outreach, Fundación Bioconservancy works to create lasting conservation impact. Through the establishment of natural reserves and collaboration with local communities, they aim to protect endangered species and foster environmental stewardship for future generations.
